What this error means
Door fault — the door is not fully closed or the door lock has not engaged
The dE error means the machine cannot confirm the door is securely closed and locked. This prevents the cycle from starting or continuing. It is most commonly caused by the door not being pushed fully shut, debris in the door seal preventing closure, a worn latch hook, or a faulty door interlock switch. On Samsung machines dE can also appear if the child lock has been accidentally activated.
Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Door will not lock at the start of a programme
- Machine starts then stops immediately with dE displayed
- Cycle pauses mid-wash with a door fault
- Door appears closed but machine will not begin
Diagnostic steps
Press the door firmly with both hands on the outer plastic frame. You should hear and feel a solid click as the latch snaps into the catch plate on the machine body. The door face should sit completely flush.
Samsung washing machines have a child lock that disables all controls including door release. The dE code can appear in combination with a child lock activation. Check your model's manual for the exact button combination — commonly Temperature and Spin held for 3 seconds, or the child lock button if one is present. A padlock icon on the display confirms the child lock is active.
Run your fingers slowly around the full circumference of the rubber door seal, pressing into the folds. Feel for trapped clothing, coins, hair grips, or any debris. Remove anything found. Pay close attention to the lower section of the seal.
Open the door and inspect the plastic latch hook on the door edge — it must be intact with no cracks, chips, or visible bending. Examine the catch plate slot on the machine body. Both must be undamaged and properly aligned.
With the machine unplugged, look into the catch plate opening on the machine body. The interlock switch is the small mechanism inside. Check it is not obstructed, discoloured, or showing signs of burning.
Unplug the machine and hold the power button for 5 seconds to discharge the control board. Leave unplugged for 60 seconds. Plug back in and try a short programme.
When to call an engineer
- Door interlock switch fails a continuity test with a multimeter
- Door latch hook is visibly cracked, bent, or broken
- Door hangs lower than normal — hinge is worn or damaged
- Wiring to the door interlock is burnt or the connector has melted
Frequently asked questions
Is dE dangerous?
What is the Samsung child lock and how do I turn it off?
Why does dE appear mid-cycle rather than at the start?
Will the drum drain before the door unlocks after a dE fault?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Door Lock | £10 - £20 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Door Lock | £10 - £20 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.